Ben-DutkaWe've done everything we could to fully reveal the new PS3 Slim, but as always, there were a few lingering questions. Well, Sony has already answered them for you.
ArsTechnica spoke to Sony's John Koller and clarified a few important facts that many gamers have been eager to learn; such topics include the state of the current PS3 model, backwards compatibility for PS2 software and why we'll no longer be able to use different Operating Systems. So here we go:
On model availability and pricing
Retailers will continue to get rid of their current stock of 80GB PS3s and once they're gone, they're gone for good; the PS3 Slim "will be the hardware moving forward." As for the 160GB model, it was always supposed to be a limited-time deal, so if you want to snag it now that it features a more attractive $399 price tag, you had best take advantage. As for pricing, as of now , the 80GB PS3 should be reduced to $299, and to reaffirm, the PS3 Slim will also debut at that price on September 1 in North America and Europe (299 Euros in Europe).
On the new hard drive
The PS3 Slim boasts a larger 120GB hard drive and according to Koller, you can indeed replace it with a bigger one if you wish, and furthermore, this will not void your warranty. In fact, it's actually encouraged; the hard drive is accessible in the front of the system and changing it is merely a "two-screw process."
On the new redesigned interior
The PS3 Slim has a new power cable that uses about 1/3 less power, and with the decreased power consumption, the cooling system has also been redesigned and the Cell processor is down to a 45nm process from the previous 65nm. The new slimmer console will be lighter and quieter and will still have all the same capabilities and features of the older, fatter model. Koller also said the system will have a power brick, but it'll be small; it'll be "nothing like" the one that comes with the Xbox 360.
On disallowing other Operating Systems
The new PS3 won't let you install a new OS and Koller explained it simply- "There are a couple of reasons. We felt we wanted to move forward with the OS we have now. If anyone wants to use previous models and change the OS, they can do so. We wanted to standardize our OS."
On backwards compatibility
In what may be the most disappointing news for long-time PS2 fans, Koller firmly said full b/c for PS2 software won't be coming back. After saying clearly that it won't be returning, he added- "It's not as big as a purchase intent driver as you may be hearing. We've got such a substantial lineup of titles on the PS3; most people are buying the PS3 for PS3 games. They've buying it for PS3 games and Blu-ray movies." We know a lot of you out there still wanted to see b/c return, and rumors had hinted that it might come with a new firmware update in the future, but that rumor has been officially shot down.
'whew' Okay, that should just about do it. There can't be anything else you need to know, can there?
